Wilson Thomas Dean passed away Friday, January 29th at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO. He passed away in comfort knowing that loved ones were close by him. He was born in Oxford, NC, September 22nd, 1957. He leaves behind his sons, Alexander, Robert, DeShawn, and Zachary Dean, his life partner, Shane Burr, his sister, Margie Rose Bumgarner Clark Keaton, as well as countless close friends.

Thom's celebration of life will be Sunday, February 21st, from 12:30 - 2:30 at the address listed below. We will be having some great food and even better conversation. This will be a wonderful time for Thom's family and friends to share stories and memories to reflect upon the amazing time Thom spent with us on this earth. Feel free to bring a side dish if you would like.

Thom dedicated his life to helping others, most specifically those with disabilities and special needs. Our family would like for him to still be able to do this even after his passing. We ask that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Friends of Abilities First where a memorial fund has been established for him. There are two ways to make a donation:

Online: Visit www.abilitiesfirst.net/donate.html and make a donation via paypal. On the review screen you will see a box marked "add special instructions to the seller". Check that box and type in "Thom Dean Memorial".

By mail: Make check payable to "Friends of Abilities First", 1370 E. Primrose, Suite A, Springfield, MO, 65804. Please make sure to write "Thom Dean Memorial" on the memo line of the check.

Location of Celebration of Life: Botanical Center building at Springfield Botanical Gardens located at 2400 S. Scenic in Springfield, MO.